Future Leaders Booklet 2025 - Sustainability and Nature - Final
FIDIC Future Leaders –Advancing infrastructure and engineering sustainability
A FIDIC Conference Booklet prepared by the FIDIC Future Leaders Advisory Council
September 2025
I am pleased that the Future Leaders Advisory Council (FLAC) is represented strongly at the 2025 FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference through a newly revamped session on the Sunday entitled “FIDIC Insight to the Future and FLMC 2025 Workshop Presentation,” previously the Future Leaders Symposium.
The aim of this rebrand will be to attract more people to attend the Sunday programme and further expand the reach of the Future Leaders’ session.
The FLAC and the conference provide the opportunity for the future leaders of our industry to participate actively in FIDIC with their peers and to develop as the next generation of leaders in the consulting engineering and wider infrastructure sector. This publication forms part of this remit. It is important that Future Leaders’ voices are heard if the industry is to move towards the UN sustainable development goals (SDGs), net zero and beyond whilst incorporating new technologies, challenges and uncertainties.
This year marks another important milestone and a first for us. Not only is it the ninth year of publishing our booklet, but we have continued the successful trend from 2024 where we published, not just one, but three booklets around different themes. What an achievement!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank those that lead the Future Leaders Advisory Council before me, the team around the FLAC and the secretariat at FIDIC, who have all supported the bold aim for this programme to go from an ambitious idea to the achievement it is today.
The three booklet themes this year, I believe, represent the breadth and importance of the challenges we are facing. They are:
• Planning, procuring and delivering tomorrows infrastructure
• Advancing infrastructure and engineering sustainability
• Infrastructure in an increasingly diverse and digital society
We are now only five years away from the 2030 SDGs goals and net zero is also increasingly just over the horizon. The work we are doing today will form part of our net zero future and so it is important we are proactive in everything we design to meet such a goal.
Meeting global net zero targets will require a fundamental transformation of the infrastructure sector, both in the way assets are designed and in how they are delivered, maintained and operated.
Achieving these goals demands not only technological innovation but also systemic change across procurement, supply chains and regulatory frameworks. In this context, the role of young professionals and future leaders becomes increasingly significant, as they bring new perspectives, adaptability and a willingness to challenge traditional approaches.
Artur Brito
Chair - FIDIC Future Leaders Council
Foreword
Young professionals are entering the sector at a pivotal moment, with the opportunity to influence infrastructure planning, design and delivery in ways that lock in low-carbon outcomes for decades to come. Their familiarity with emerging digital tools, data analytics and sustainable materials provides an advantage in accelerating the adoption of greener solutions. Moreover, their active engagement in cross-disciplinary collaboration, working across engineering, environmental science, policy and finance will all play a key role in helping to bridge the gaps between sectors.
To fully realise this potential, the sector must invest in developing the skills, confidence and influence of its emerging workforce. This involves creating structured opportunities for young professionals to contribute to strategic decision-making, providing access to mentoring and leadership programmes and fostering workplace cultures that reward innovation and climate-conscious thinking.
Equally, industry leaders and policymakers must ensure that future leaders are empowered to take bold, evidence-based decisions, even when these challenge established norms. By equipping the next generation with the tools, authority and platform to lead, the infrastructure sector can better navigate the transition to net zero.
The conference theme, Smart Infrastructure: Equality, Resilience and Innovation for a Sustainable World, could therefore not be more apt or vital at such an important time. We hope that you enjoy reading the articles that FIDIC’s Future Leaders have prepared and find the content and context both interesting and valuable as we move towards a more sustainable, equitable and possibly technology-driven future.
Recognised Authors
Acknowledging the seriousness of the challenges we face in the sector, the FIDIC Future Leaders Advisory Council wanted to provide a platform for future leaders in the consulting engineering industry to share, reflect and come forward with new ideas or challenges.
We invited future leaders to reflect on the challenges and how we can not only approach the future but also consider that a different approach will also have additional or new benefits to economies, societies, and nature as a whole.
It is important that as a sector and as a society, individuals look forward to the opportunities in the V-U-C-A (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) world despite how it impacts consulting engineering, infrastructure development, attraction, retention and development of Future Leaders.
We would like to highlight the contribution of those authors selected by the FLAC for inclusion in this booklet. They have provided us with opinions, experiences and innovative ideas on how to evolve and adapt to future challenges and opportunities.
Authors:
• William Mvida Quarshie, Ghana
• Winfred Mawutor Yao Aklorbortu, Ghana
• Candida Elsie Elinam Akosua Ametowobla, Ghana
• Grace Asare, Ghana
• Isaac Agyemang, Ghana
• Stephen Asiamah, Ghana
• Godslove A. Duncan, Ghana
• Daniel Johnson, Ghana
• Yvonne Durowaa Ntow, Ghana
• Emmanuella Akuamoa Boateng, Ghana
• Iddrisu Faisal, Ghana
• Wilberforce Adjei Sakyi, Ghana
• Princess Makolo, Botswana
Recognised Authors
Integrating Sustainable Materials and User-Centric Design for Resilient Urban Active Transportation Infrastructure
William Mvida Quarshie is a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with a strong passion for problem-solving, especially in transportation engineering, infrastructure and urban design. He is dedicated to people-centric, community-conscious systems that enhance urban mobility and living.
Leveraging technology and AI-driven solutions, he aims to create safer, more sustainable cities. William holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana and currently works as a graduate engineer at DELIN Consult, supporting its vision of inspiring excellence and delivering happiness. Known for leadership, teamwork and innovation, he thrives in collaborative, forward-thinking environments.
Introduction
Rapid urbanisation and climate change call for sustainable and resilient urban infrastructure, and especially for vulnerable road users. In Ghana, pedestrians and cyclists face increased risks due to inadequate, deteriorating infrastructure especially on the Tafo-Suame corridor in Kumasi.
Amid global challenges, sustainable active transport infrastructure such as walking and cycling are crucial for healthier communities, reduced emissions and urban resilience. Conventional infrastructure, however, often lacks adequate safety, durability and environmental responsibility, exacerbating resource depletion and waste generation.
Poor infrastructure and a reliance on traditional materials impede Ghana's efforts to provide pavement infrastructure for NMT users, particularly in the Tafo-Suame corridor, which sees a significant volume of cyclists and pedestrians. Integrating user-focused safety assessments with recycled polymer pavements can enhance durability, safety and environmental performance while advancing net zero and resilience goals.
This paper proposes an integrated approach to address these challenges by combining user-focused safety assessments with the innovative use of recycled polymer materials in pavement construction for cyclists and pedestrians. With Ghana producing 1.1 million tons of plastic waste annually, these materials offer a durable, low-emission solution that improves infrastructure performance and aesthetics. The study identifies key safety risks and promotes a holistic framework that supports net zero goals and fosters a circular economy.
Case study context: the Tafo-Suame corridor, Ghana
The research focuses on an urban area within the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana, specifically the Tafo-Suame corridor. This industrialised and residential stretch is characterised by a high population density and significant pedestrian and cyclist activity. The corridor is known for poor pavement infrastructure for NMT, inadequate cycle lanes and unsafe pedestrian and cyclist behaviour. The study highlights the urgent need for improved pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure in such urban environments where vulnerable road users are prevalent.
Key findings: infrastructure deficiencies and user behaviour
The Tafo-Suame corridor in Kumasi highlights severe infrastructure inadequacies for pedestrians and cyclists. Walkways are mostly non-existent along a 4km stretch and, where present, they are eroded, obstructed by kiosks, sheds and vehicle parts, and unsafe for use. There are no dedicated cycle lanes, forcing cyclists into shared, unsafe spaces with vehicles.
Pavements are worn with roadside encroachment worsening congestion and collision risk. Road user behaviours like jaywalking, distracted walking and lack of use of safety gear among cyclists further endanger lives and increase risk of accidents. In such contexts, recycled polymer walkways and cycle paths provide an immediate, durable, low-maintenance and climate-resilient solution.
William Mvida Quarshie, Ghana
Recognised Authors
Integrating Sustainable Materials and User-Centric Design for Resilient Urban Active Transportation Infrastructure
The case for resilient active transportation infrastructure
Robust active transportation infrastructure is vital for sustainable and resilient cities. In the Tafo-Suame corridor, walkways and cycle lanes are deteriorated and often not provided, revealing a deep infrastructure challenge in the metropolis. Incorporating recycled plastics into pedestrian and cycle pavements offer a low-emission, high-performance alternative to traditional materials like concrete and bricks, which are prone to cracking and require high energy for production.
Plastic-modified asphalt or modules lower emissions through reduced production temperatures and provide superior heat resistance (up to +80°C) because it prevents deformation common in conventional surfaces. It also lasts up to ten times longer, reducing maintenance costs. Plastic pavements provide smoother, safer and more resilient surfaces than bricks or concrete, which can be uneven and less flexible. This is important for fostering egalitarian mobility and climate-resilient infrastructure on the Tafo-Suame corridor.
Innovating with recycled polymer materials for pavements
Recycled polymer materials offer a sustainable solution to plastic waste and infrastructure challenges. They are produced by collecting, cleaning and processing plastic waste into pellets, which are then blended with bitumen or moulded into pavement modules. The resulting mixture improves binder strength and elasticity and can be used in place of conventional materials for pavement infrastructure. This reduces landfill waste, cuts reliance on virgin materials and lowers emissions. The polymer materials enhance pavement strength, resist weathering, improve safety through better grip and drainage and reduce upkeep ideal for durable, urban active transport routes.
Integrated approach for future infrastructure projects
A holistic, integrated approach is proposed for future infrastructure projects, combining user-centric safety assessments with the strategic application of recycled polymers. This synergy ensures that infrastructure solutions are both data-driven and sustainable. The framework includes:
COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY AUDITS
MATERIAL SELECTION & DESIGN INTEGRATION
IMPLEMENTATION WITH PERFORMANCE MONITORING
This integration boosts infrastructure lifespan, user safety and environmental performance while supporting circular economy principles and net zero goals. Continued research, pilot projects and policy support are critical to unlocking the full potential of this approach and driving the transformation toward sustainable, resilient, and equitable urban infrastructure.
Challenges and future outlook
While promising, implementing this integrated approach requires addressing challenges such as updating engineering standards, establishing robust supply chains for recycled polymers and managing initial cost considerations. Further research and pilot projects are essential to refine material specifications, optimise construction techniques and quantify long-term performance and cost-benefits across diverse environments.
This integrated vision offers a critical pathway for the engineering profession to lead in building truly sustainable, resilient and equitable urban infrastructure for the future.
Recognised Authors
Sustainable flood management in Urban Ghana: The role of nature based Solutions and community action
Winfred Mawutor Yao Aklorbortu is a geomatic engineering practitioner and project support personnel in the water and environmental engineering unit at Constromart Africa. He holds a BSc in geomatic engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Winfred has practical experience in LiDAR data processing, GIS mapping, road design and environmental data analysis. His expertise supports sustainable engineering solutions, particularly in geospatial analysis and water infrastructure planning.
Candida Elsie Elinam Akosua Ametowobla is a civil engineering practitioner and project support personnel in the water and environmental engineering unit at Constromart Africa. She holds a BSc in civil engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Elsie has hands-on experience with water infrastructure projects, including dam rehabilitation, stormwater drainage and piezometric data analysis. Her strengths lie in site supervision, data interpretation and civil works documentation.
Grace Asare is a civil engineering practitioner and project support personnel in the water and environmental engineering unit. She holds a B.Sc. in civil engineering from the University of Energy and Natural Resources, where she was recognised as the Best Graduating Female Student in both her department and school. Grace brings skills in AutoCAD, GIS and environmental project planning and is passionate about sustainable infrastructure and water systems development.
Winfred Mawutor Yao Aklorbortu, Ghana
Candida Elsie Elinam Akosua Ametowobla, Ghana
Grace Asare, Ghana
Recognised Authors
Sustainable flood management in Urban Ghana: The role of nature based Solutions and community action
Introduction
Urban flooding presents a challenge globally, disrupting economies, displacing communities and posing significant public health risks, particularly in rapidly urbanising regions. The increase in flood incidents worldwide is often fuelled by a combination of rapid urbanisation, inadequate infrastructure and the escalating impacts of climate change, leading to more frequent and intense rainfall events.
Traditional "grey" infrastructure solutions, such as concrete drains and culverts, have often proven insufficient in managing these growing volumes of stormwater, highlighting a global need for more sustainable and adaptable approaches. Moreover, these conventional systems can be costly to build and maintain and frequently overlook the unique vulnerabilities of informal settlements. In response to this global crisis, nature based solutions (NBS) are gaining increasing recognition and adoption worldwide.
These solutions, which leverage natural processes to address societal issues, offer an affordable, sustainable, and resilient alternative to conventional engineering. Globally, NBS are embraced for their ability to mitigate flood risks while simultaneously providing environmental and social co-benefits, such as enhanced biodiversity and improved public spaces.
Ghana's urban flood challenge
Ghana's urban areas have experienced a worrying surge in flood incidents in recent years, significantly disrupting daily life, damaging critical infrastructure and posing serious public health threats. Cities like Accra and Kumasi are particularly affected due to factors such as climate change, improper waste management and insufficient drainage infrastructure. This growing crisis is exacerbated by rapid urbanisation, the proliferation of unplanned settlements and climate-induced extreme rainfall, which overwhelm existing drainage systems.
The limitations of conventional engineering solutions are evident, as they struggle to manage the increasing volumes of stormwater and often neglect the needs of vulnerable informal communities.
This paper examines the potential of incorporating NBS for sustainable urban flood management within Ghana's specific context. It emphasises how these strategies, when paired with intelligent monitoring tools and community led planning, can produce resilient, inclusive and ecologically friendly infrastructure solutions tailored to Ghana's urban environment and national climate resilience priorities.
The role of urban wetlands in Ghana's flood management
Urban wetlands in Ghana, like elsewhere, act as natural buffers, absorbing and storing excess rainfall, reducing runoff speed and filtering pollutants. Many historic wetlands in Ghanaian cities, such as the Korle Lagoon and Sakumono Ramsar Site in Accra, however, have been degraded by encroachment, pollution and infilling. Restoring these degraded wetlands can significantly improve a city's flood mitigation capacity.
Modern restoration practices involve hydrological rebalancing, planting native vegetation and protecting them from encroachment. A restored wetland serves not only as a flood buffer but also as a public green space, offering co-benefits such as biodiversity conservation and climate cooling effects.
Permeable drainage systems for Ghana's urban context
Permeable drainage systems, also known as Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), manage stormwater runoff by allowing water to infiltrate the ground rather than flow over impervious surfaces. These systems are particularly ideal for Ghana's informal settlements, where traditional drains are frequently blocked or non-existent. Permeable drainage systems are generally less expensive to build and maintain, can double as green public areas and are compatible with decentralised, community-managed models, making them well-suited for Ghana's urban fabric.
Recognised Authors
Sustainable flood management in Urban Ghana: The role of nature based Solutions and community action
Smart monitoring and early warning systems in Ghana
Incorporating smart hydrological monitoring tools will significantly enhance the efficiency and planning of urban flood management across Ghana's cities and nationwide. Low-cost sensors, real-time rainfall gauges and citizen-reporting mobile apps can effectively monitor and report flood-prone areas, provide early warnings to communities and city authorities and generate data for evidence-based urban planning and policy development. These tools support adaptive maintenance and data-driven infrastructure planning, which are crucial for Ghana's flood resilience efforts.
Community led planning as a catalyst for change in Ghana
Community participation is fundamental to the success of nature based flood management in Ghana. Involving local residents in identifying flood prone areas, reporting on encroachment and selecting suitable sites for interventions ensures that solutions are context-specific, trusted and more likely to be maintained.
Residents can actively contribute to the monitoring and maintenance of wetlands and permeable drainage systems, while community groups can help detect blockages and report issues. Educational campaigns and youth involvement further strengthen awareness and stewardship within Ghanaian communities. Inclusive approaches, as highlighted by the Green Africa Youth Organization (2021), build trust and improve the long-term sustainability of interventions in Ghana.
A scalable framework and policy integration for Ghana
Scaling nature based flood solutions in Ghana's cities demands a coordinated, multi-level approach. This involves implementing a mix of interventions such as restored wetlands, rain gardens, green roofs and permeable pavements, all supported by smart monitoring systems for real-time data and alerts.
Critically, communities must be involved in mapping risks, designing solutions and maintaining infrastructure. At the policy level, these interventions should be integrated into national plans like the National Adaptation Plan and Medium-Term Development Framework, with strong leadership from municipal assemblies, the Environmental Protection Agency, and local stakeholders.
Funding strategies should combine public resources, private investment, and international climate finance. Pilot projects in high-risk areas like Alajo and Ahinsan can serve as scalable models and provide proof of concept, with knowledge-sharing platforms supporting wider replication across Ghana.
Challenges and opportunities for Ghana
While Ghana faces challenges such as land tenure issues, limited funding and weak policy enforcement, significant opportunities exist by aligning with national strategies and sustainable development goals and tapping into international climate finance.
Conclusion
NBS offer a sustainable approach for tackling urban flooding in Ghana. Integrating them into city planning, engaging communities, investing in monitoring tools, implementing pilot projects and forging partnerships will strengthen resilience and drive sustainable urban development.
FIGURE 1: EXAMPLES OF SUDS
FIGURE 2: HOW SUDS WORK
Recognised Authors
Nature based infrastructure: A future-ready approach to urban resilience and sustainability
Isaac Agyemang is a civil engineering practitioner and project support personnel in the transportation planning & engineering unit. He holds a B.Sc. in civil engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, with specialisation in structural and transportation engineering.
Isaac has experience in pavement design, traffic modelling, road inventory surveys and field quality testing. His work supports data-driven transport infrastructure planning and road safety analysis.
Stephen Asiamah is a civil engineering practitioner and project support personnel in the transportation planning & engineering unit. He holds a B-Tech in civil engineering from Takoradi Technical University, graduating with first class honours.
Stephen has practical experience in road and bridge inspection, structural drawing preparation and site supervision, with a particular interest in transport infrastructure safety and planning.
Godslove A. Duncan, is a manager for civil infrastructure projects and the head for the transportation planning and engineering unit. He is a registered professional engineer with the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) and a FIDIC Certified Consulting Engineer.
He holds a BSc in civil engineering and is pursuing graduate studies in MSc. transport systems at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. He has over seven years of experience and specialises in construction supervision, geometric design and project management.
Isaac Agyemang, Ghana
Godslove A. Duncan, Ghana
Stephen Asiamah, Ghana
Recognised Authors
Nature based infrastructure: A future-ready approach to urban resilience and sustainability
Introduction
The global climate crisis and rapid urban growth necessitate the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure. Sustainability ensures systems meet current needs without compromising future generations' economic, environmental and social needs. Resilience involves infrastructure's ability to anticipate, absorb, adapt and recover from disruptive events. Nature-based Solutions can address both sustainability and resilience by leveraging natural processes and ecosystems.
Rapid urbanisation, increased surface runoff, heat stress and deteriorating environmental conditions are putting pressure on urban areas in the global south. Traditional infrastructure, like concrete and steel, fails to adapt. Nature-based alternatives like green roofs, rain gardens, wetlands and permeable landscapes offer adaptive, low-carbon and socially inclusive solutions, mitigating climate risks, enhancing biodiversity and improving cost efficiency.
The challenge
Ghana is grappling with increasing flooding due to climate change, uncontrolled development and the removal of natural drainage paths. Major urban centres like Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi experience multiple flooding incidents annually, resulting in loss of lives, displacement and economic disruption. Traditional "grey" infrastructure, such as stormwater drains, culverts, and concrete channels, are overly reliant on outdated rainfall return periods and they lack adaptability to dynamic urban growth or climate variability.
These systems are designed to handle lower volumes of runoff than current urban sprawl generates, triggering flash floods in densely populated communities. The Ghana Hydrological Authority reports multiple flooding incidents annually, resulting in loss of lives, displacement and significant economic disruption.
Inadequate infrastructure in flood prone areas leads to environmental degradation and social issues, particularly affecting low-income and informal settlements. These communities lack political and economic power to advocate for safer interventions, disrupting education, healthcare and livelihoods, perpetuating poverty, and inequality cycles.
The destruction of natural vegetation and wetland encroachment in Ghana leads to significant environmental costs, undermining ecosystem services and increasing infrastructure carbon footprint. Green belts and floodplains are converted into impermeable surfaces, exacerbating surface runoff and urban heat island effects. The lack of resilient infrastructure leaves cities vulnerable to climate shocks, which is likely to intensify with erratic weather patterns.
The current approach to infrastructure is no longer adequate. Ghana, like other developing nations, must adopt adaptive, nature-integrated systems that protect both people and ecosystems. Achieving this transformation requires the active involvement of future leaders, engineers, planners and policymakers who must reimagine urban development with a focus on sustainability, resilience, equity and climate adaptability.
Nature-Based Solutions: The sustainable alternative
As global efforts to address climate change intensify, NBS are emerging as sustainable alternatives to traditional infrastructure. Defined by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as “actions to protect, sustainably manage and restore natural or modified ecosystems that address societal challenges,” NBS offer engineering, ecological, and social benefits by working with nature instead of against it.
Examples of NBS include green roofs that reduce urban heat and absorb rainfall, rain gardens that filter stormwater, constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment and urban forests that improve air quality and provide cooling. These interventions enhance urban resilience while fostering more inclusive, equitable spaces.
In Ghana, there is significant potential to scale NBS. Restoring degraded wetlands in Accra’s flood-prone areas, such as the Odaw River Basin, could reduce flood risk and restore biodiversity. In cities like Kumasi and Tamale, green corridors along roads and walkways could mitigate heat and create recreational spaces. Such strategies are low-cost yet high impact, aligning with Ghana’s nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement and its net zero ambitions.
Recognised Authors
Nature based infrastructure: A future-ready approach to urban resilience and sustainability
Vegetation-based infrastructure naturally sequesters CO2, offering climate mitigation and lower embodied carbon compared to steel and concrete. Additionally, NBS improve biodiversity, air and water quality and mental wellbeing, while creating green jobs in ecosystem restoration and environmental monitoring especially for women and youth.
Case Studies
• Singapore’s Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park: Transformed a concrete canal into a natural river with bioengineering. It improved flood resilience, biodiversity, and urban liveability.
• Netherlands’ Room for the River: Modified dikes and created floodplains to manage river overflows, reducing flood risk while enhancing biodiversity and recreation.
The Role of Future Leaders
Future Leaders, young engineers, planners, and sustainability advocates must champion NBS integration in infrastructure. We must reimagine development to be inclusive, regenerative and climate resilient.
• Advocacy and Implementation: Future Leaders should advocate for NBS in organisations and communities, using digital tools like GIS and AI to demonstrate their technical and economic viability.
• Collaboration and Learning: NBS require interdisciplinary approaches, combining civil engineering, ecology and community engagement. Continuous learning and collaboration across sectors are essential.
• Overcoming Challenges: Misconceptions about NBS reliability, funding limitations and institutional resistance must be addressed. Future Leaders must become effective communicators, build alliances and showcase scalable success stories.
Recommendations and Way Forward
• Promote Hybrid Infrastructure Policies: Develop standards for integrating NBS with traditional systems to enhance resilience.
• Strengthen Partnerships and Engagement: Facilitate multi-stakeholder collaboration to ensure financing, innovation and local relevance.
• Invest in Research and Education: Incorporate NBS into academic curricula and fund research on their performance and co-benefits.
• Develop Holistic Evaluation Frameworks: Create tools that account for NBS long-term, multi-functional value to support informed decision-making.
Conclusion
To build a sustainable future, infrastructure development must shift from a narrow focus on efficiency to a broader vision of resilience, equity and ecological harmony. NBS provide a regenerative approach, enhancing both human and natural systems.
Future Leaders have a critical role in this transformation. With bold advocacy, cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovative design, we can embed sustainability into the foundation of our communities. Our choices today will define the legacy of tomorrow.
Recognised Authors
Advancing Sustainable and Resilient Construction: Integrating Basic Magnesium Sulphate Cement into Reactive Powder Concrete for Low-Carbon Infrastructure
Daniel Johnson, is a materials engineer and the head of the materials and quality control unit at Constromart in Accra, Ghana. He is a registered engineering geologist with the Ghana Institution of Geoscientists. Daniel holds an MSc in materials science and engineering from the Southwest University of Science and Technology and a BSc in earth science from the University for Development Studies.
He has over seven years of professional experience and served as a works Inspector on Ghana’s first output and performance-based road contract, a World Bank-funded project. His areas of specialisation include cement and concrete technology, materials investigation and testing, quality control inspection and construction supervision. Daniel also has extensive experience in engineering applications focused on low-carbon cement and concrete, contributing to sustainable construction practices in Ghana and beyond.
Yvonne Durowaa Ntow is an engineering geologist at Constromart in Accra, Ghana. Yvonne has extensive experience in materials testing, quality control, and geotechnical investigations. She has a solid foundation in Earth Sciences, holding a BSc from the University of Ghana, and is currently advancing her expertise through an MSc in environmental engineering and management at the University of Energy and Natural Resources.
A committed professional and member of the Ghana Institution of Geoscientists, she brings a strong interdisciplinary perspective to sustainable infrastructure development. Yvonne has been actively involved in several major infrastructure projects, including Ghana’s first output and performance-based road contract, where she contributed to ensuring quality standards and geotechnical integrity. Her work integrates engineering geology with environmentally responsible practices, with a strong focus on delivering data-driven, resilient solutions for complex environments. Passionate about innovation and long-term impact, she continues to contribute meaningfully to infrastructure delivery.
Daniel Johnson, Ghana
Yvonne Durowaa Ntow, Ghana
Recognised Authors
Advancing Sustainable and Resilient Construction: Integrating Basic Magnesium Sulphate Cement into Reactive Powder Concrete for Low-Carbon Infrastructure
Introduction: Decarbonising the cement industry
The global construction industry is under increasing pressure to decarbonise, innovate, and adapt to the changing climate. Cement production alone is responsible for nearly 8% of global CO2 emissions, a figure driven by the energy-intensive nature of clinker production and the calcination of limestone. In this context, new research is pointing to promising alternative materials that deliver high performance while minimising environmental impact. One such material is Basic Magnesium Sulphate Cement (BMSC), a binder system that shows exceptional mechanical and durability properties while offering a lower-carbon alternative to Ordinary Portland cement (OPC).
This article summarises findings from a research project focused on developing Reactive Powder Concrete (RPC) using BMSC as the primary binder. The objective was twofold: to explore a new cementitious system with strong technical performance and to support global efforts toward sustainable construction by reducing CO2 emissions through innovative material selection and mix design.
Development and performance of BMSC-Based Reactive Powder Concrete
BMSC is a ternary system composed of light-burnt magnesia, magnesium sulphate and water. Unlike OPC, its production does not rely on high-temperature kilns or carbon-intensive raw materials such as limestone. This alone offers a significant reduction in embodied carbon. When combined with supplementary materials like circulating fluidised bed combustion (CFBC) ash, a by-product from power plants, BMSC transforms into a vehicle for both emissions’ reduction and industrial waste vaporisation. In the laboratory, various mix designs were developed and tested using BMSC, CFBC ash, citric acid as a set retarder and superplasticisers to enhance fluidity. To further improve tensile strength and ductility, steel fibres were added in varying proportions. The resulting RPC mixes were evaluated for compressive and flexural strength, water resistance, shrinkage and microstructure through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
The optimal mix without steel fibres achieved a 28-day compressive strength of 99.2 MPa and flexural strength of 23.2 MPa. With the inclusion of 2% steel fibres, these increased to 119.1 MPa and 25.3 MPa, respectively. Water resistance was also notably improved. The softening coefficient, a measure of strength retention after water exposure, increased from 0.88 (without fibres) to 0.95 (with fibres). SEM images revealed a dense, compact microstructure with reduced formation of deleterious magnesium hydroxide [Mg (OH)2] phases, which are typically associated with durability issues in magnesia-based systems.
The curing regime also played a significant role in performance optimisation. The most effective method involved a combination of ambient curing for seven days, thermal curing at 70°C for another seven days, followed by 14 days of standard curing. This sequence produced compressive and flexural strengths of 108.8 MPa and 22.0 MPa, respectively suitable for high-strength, long-span infrastructure applications.
Recognised Authors
Advancing Sustainable and Resilient Construction: Integrating Basic Magnesium Sulphate Cement into Reactive Powder Concrete for Low-Carbon Infrastructure
Sustainability and practical implications
From a sustainability perspective, the results are compelling. First, BMSC production requires significantly lower temperatures than OPC, reducing fossil fuel consumption. Second, it eliminates the need for limestone calcination, one of the largest sources of CO2 in traditional cement manufacturing. Third, incorporating CFBC ash not only enhances performance but also diverts industrial waste from landfills, aligning with circular economy principles. The lifecycle emissions of BMSC-based RPC are therefore substantially lower than conventional alternatives, especially when used in projects that prioritise long-term durability and low maintenance.
This research has clear implications for sustainable infrastructure development, particularly in regions facing rapid urbanisation and climate vulnerabilities. By leveraging locally available materials and industrial by-products, BMSC-based systems can support low-carbon construction strategies that are both cost-effective and technically sound. These solutions are critical for emerging economies looking to expand infrastructure responsibly without compromising environmental goals.
A: MIXING WATER
B: MAGNESIUM CEMENT PASTE
C: ADDING CFBC ASH & SAND
F: POLYTHENE COVERING
E: MOULDING AND COMPACTION
D: BMSC MIX
FIGURE 1: PREPARATION OF BASIC MAGNESIUM SULFATE CEMENT-BASED RPC
Recognised Authors
Transforming agricultural waste into smart infrastructure: The case of palm kernel shells in road infrastructure development
Emmanuella Akuamoa Boateng is a civil engineer and a member of the materials and quality control unit at Constromart in Accra, Ghana. She holds a Bachelor of Technology in civil engineering from Kumasi Technical University. Emmanuella brings hands-on experience in geotechnical investigations, laboratory and field testing, and construction supervision.
With a strong commitment to quality assurance and safety in infrastructure delivery, her work supports the development of resilient and reliable civil engineering projects. She is particularly interested in sustainable engineering practices that promote environmental responsibility and long-term performance in construction.
Iddrisu Faisal is a civil engineer and a member of the materials and quality control unit at Constromart in Accra, Ghana. He holds both a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) and a Higher National Diploma in civil engineering from Accra Technical University.
Faisal has practical experience in site supervision, civil works estimation and technical report preparation. He has previously contributed to quality control and construction documentation for institutional and healthcare infrastructure projects. Known for his attention to detail and strong sense of teamwork, Faisal is committed to upholding high standards in materials assessment and ensuring compliance on construction sites.
Wilberforce Adjei Sakyi is a civil Engineer and a member of the materials and quality control unit at Constromart in Accra, Ghana. He holds a Higher National Diploma and a Bachelor of Technology in civil engineering from Cape Coast Technical University.
Wilberforce brings practical experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical investigations and field density assessments. His technical expertise contributes to maintaining quality standards on construction sites, with a particular focus on soil and concrete testing. He plays a key role in supporting the delivery of safe and compliant infrastructure projects.
Introduction
Road infrastructure development faces growing pressure to decarbonise, reduce costs and transition to more sustainable construction practices. This paper explores the use of palm kernel shells (PKS), a waste product of the palm oil industry, as a smart, nature-based alternative to traditional aggregates in road construction. Drawing on recent research, the study evaluates PKS’s mechanical performance, environmental benefits, and economic feasibility. It concludes that PKS can significantly contribute to net zero infrastructure goals while fostering local innovation and resilience.
Emmanuella Akuamoa Boateng, Ghana
Iddrisu Faisal, Ghana
Wilberforce Adjei Sakyi, Ghana
Transforming agricultural waste into smart infrastructure: The case of palm kernel shells in road infrastructure development Recognised Authors
As global demand for sustainable infrastructure rises, Ghana must explore innovative, low-carbon alternatives for road construction. As part of these infrastructure works, roads could be considered as one of the most resource-demanding ones, with the greatest impact on materials, specifically granite and other virgin aggregates. Meanwhile, Ghana’s palm oil industry produces significant amounts of agricultural residue especially PKS which pose disposal and environmental challenges if unmanaged1. This research investigates the use of PKS as a partial or full replacement for granite in asphalt and concrete mixes for road construction, contributing to both waste reduction and sustainable infrastructure development.
Methodology
Boateng et al. (2023) provide the experimental foundation for the current research, in which the authors replaced granite with varying amounts of PKS in concrete for Portland cement. To smoothen the surfaces and also minimise the high-water absorption characteristics of the materials, the authors washed, dried and soaked them. To evaluate the influence of a 90-day hydration period on the capacity of the concrete to withstand bending and splitting stresses as well as the nature of the failure, 105 cylindrical and 155 beam specimens were tested over that period. Flexural and splitting tensile strengths were measured per BS EN 12390-6 and BS EN 12390-5 respectively.
Key findings
The authors found that substituting PKS for up to 50% of the granite in concrete not only ensured that the material was still strong enough, but also that the road components that were made from it were compatible with non-load-bearing usage. The highest 28-day split tensile strength observed was 3.10 N/mm² (59% of the control)2. While strength decreases at higher PKS content, moderate blends still meet required performance standards for specific applications. Due to its smooth surface texture, PKS concrete tends to exhibit brittle, explosive failure modes, limiting its use in high-impact areas but making it suitable for sub-base layers, walkways and low-traffic rural roads3.
On the other hand, PKS is an environmental solution that can fit quite well into the circular economy model in Ghana, with its ability to reduce the demand for virgin aggregates, decrease carbon emissions and also efficiently manage waste4. Furthermore, it is a low-cost solution, easily available and it helps the community in rural and semi-urban areas by encouraging local sourcing of construction materials.
Policy and infrastructure implications
The use of PKS in the construction of roads presents a way of infrastructure development which is nature-based and is capable of providing climate resilience and sustainable growth. To unlock the full potential, however, Ghana must go beyond just incorporating PKS into national road standards but also register material testing protocols and provide incentives such as pilot projects and tax relief for green construction materials for research-to-practice pipelines.
Such collaboration between different entities namely government agencies, research institutions, and construction firms will be very vital in scaling PKS innovations to the highest level. Training programmes for engineers and contractors should emphasise the material’s properties, limitations and practical applications so that they can be able to apply them widely.
Conclusion
PKS presents a compelling case for sustainable infrastructure in Ghana. Its use in road construction reduces environmental impact, lowers material costs and promotes climate resilient development.
As global infrastructure transitions to net zero targets, PKS exemplifies how local waste can be transformed into value. Future leaders in engineering must embrace and advance such nature based innovations to shape a sustainable future for Africa and beyond.
1. Boateng et al., 2023
2. Boateng et al., 2023
3. Acheampong et al., 2013; Siow et al., 2023.
4. Okieimen & Okieimen, 2024
Recognised Authors
Building sustainable and resilient infrastructure in Africa through decarbonisation
Princess Makolo is a civil engineer at Bothakga Burrow Botswana, specialising as a structural engineer. She has over two years’ experience as a civil engineer. She holds a degree in civil engineering from the University of Botswana. She has a strong believe in sustainable designs. On 6 March 2025, she conducted a presentation at the Botswana’s Engineering Registration Board week. Her topic of presentation was Engineering solutions for today for tomorrow on sustainable road designs in Botswana. Recently, she conducted a presentation on a showcase series Episode 1 FLs in Action for climate change. Her topic of discussion was Designing Climate Resilient Buildings in Botswana.
Princess Makolo is the Association of Consulting Engineers Botswana Future Leaders mentorship committee lead, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to mentoring aspiring engineers in tertiary institutions. It also mentors children in high schools both senior and junior schools.
Sustainability is the principle of meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It requires balancing environmental, social and economic considerations5. With the escalating impact of climate change, manifested through extreme weather events like heatwaves, droughts, and hurricanes, sustainable and resilient infrastructure is increasingly vital. Resilient infrastructure refers to systems designed to withstand, adapt to and recover from such adversities, ensuring continuity and safety.
Decarbonisation lies at the heart of sustainability efforts. It involves reducing or eliminating carbon emissions, particularly CO2, a major greenhouse gas contributing to global warming. Technological progress, while beneficial, has historically led to excessive emissions, necessitating innovative approaches to mitigate their effects6
Sources and impact of carbon emissions
Globally, the construction sector is a major contributor to CO2 emissions. Construction materials alone are responsible for about 70% of a building's carbon footprint. Notably, just six materials contribute to 70% of embodied emissions, with concrete alone accounting for approximately 80% of these emissions5. Countries like Denmark and Sweden are developing revolutionary carbon-neutral materials such as bio rock and sea concrete. Australia is also innovating with carbon-neutral aluminium and steel5. African countries can also benchmark these innovations.
Carbon-heavy materials include:
• Concrete: High carbon footprint due to its widespread use and energy-intensive production.
• Plastic and aluminium: Also, significant emitters, though used less frequently.
Low-carbon alternatives include:
• Wood and biomaterials: Natural materials with low embodied carbon.
• Innovations: Low-carbon MDF panels, recycled materials, and salvaging strategies further reduce emissions.
5. Kuhlman, T., & Farrington, J. (2010). What is sustainability? Sustainability, 2(11), 3436–3448. Link
6. Kilgore, G. (2024). Carbon footprint of building materials (Green Building Calculator). 8 Billion Trees. Link
Princess Makolo, Botswana
Recognised Authors
Building sustainable and resilient infrastructure in Africa through decarbonisation
Material comparisons and reduction strategies
When comparing steel and concrete, steel emerges as the greener option due to its lower embodied carbon, although it is not as environmentally friendly as wood. Despite this, concrete remains widely used due to its cost and durability. Blending concrete with industrial byproducts like fly ash can significantly lower its environmental impact5
Key strategies to reduce embodied carbon
key strategies include designing buildings with efficient geometries, selecting sustainable materials early in the planning phase, using renewable and recycled materials with long service lives, adopting Nature Based Solutions (NBS) such as green roofs and wetlands to reduce carbon and minimising material use through smart design and construction methods5
The government, NGOs and different stakeholders can also reduce the carbon footprint in Africa by advocating for carbon offsets credits and green building construction credits. Different NGOs offer green building certifications, for example Botswana Green Building Council.
Lifecycle Carbon Footprint and Tools
Lifecycle carbon footprint measures the total green-house gas emission released throughout a product or service’s entire lifecycle, from raw material extraction to disposal8. Lifecycle assessment is a tool used in the construction and building industry to give quantitative analysis of a building’s environmental impacts thus reducing environmental harm. Unfortunately, few African countries use LCA applications as illustrated in figure 2 above.
Karkour, S., Ichisugi, Y., Abeynayaka, A., & Itsubo, N. (2020).
External-cost estimation of electricity generation in G20 countries: Case study using a global life-cycle impact-assessment method. Sustainability, 12(5), 2002. Link
8. Karkour, S., Ichisugi, Y., Abeynayaka, A., & Itsubo, N. (2020).
External-cost estimation of electricity generation in G20 countries: Case study using a global life-cycle impact-assessment method. Sustainability, 12(5), 2002. Link
FIGURE 1: HOW LCA WORK
FIGURE 2: LCA APPLICATIONS ACROSS AFRICA7
7.
Recognised Authors
Building sustainable and resilient infrastructure in Africa through decarbonisation
Demolition and end-of-life processing
Since the majority of a building’s emissions are determined during the design phase, early interventions are essential. Choosing an appropriate site can significantly influence the building’s foundation requirements and access to energy sources. During detailed design, incorporating renewable energy systems and selecting environmentally friendly materials can greatly reduce the building’s overall carbon footprint9
Tools like Autodesk Revit provide software-based solutions to model and optimise a building’s carbon footprint. These tools assist in evaluating energy consumption, material selection and structural configurations, enabling designers to make more sustainable and informed decisions.
Benefits of carbon reduction
Reducing a building’s carbon footprint is essential for:
• Climate change mitigation: Addressing one of the root causes of global warming.
• Environmental responsibility: Reflecting a commitment to sustainable development and ethical stewardship. By integrating low-carbon materials, embracing lifecycle thinking and utilising advanced modelling tools, the construction industry can play a pivotal role in transitioning to a net zero future. FIDIC promotes these values by encouraging innovation, resilience and environmental consciousness in infrastructure development worldwide.
9. Ramachandran, A. (2024, February 15). Analysing life cycle carbon footprint of buildings. One Click LCA. Link
About FIDIC
FIDIC, the International Federation of Consulting Engineers, is the global representative body for national associations of consulting engineers and represents over one million engineering professionals and 40,000 firms in around 100 countries worldwide.
Founded in 1913, FIDIC is charged with promoting and implementing the consulting engineering industry’s strategic goals on behalf of its member associations and to disseminate information and resources of interest to its members.
FIDIC member associations operate in around 100 countries with a combined population in excess of 6.5 billion people and a combined GDP in excess of $30tn. The global industry, including construction, is estimated to be worth over $22tn. This means that FIDIC member associations across the various countries are worth over $8.5tn.
Disclaimer
This document was produced by FIDIC and is provided for informative purposes only. The contents of this document are general in nature and therefore should not be applied to the specific circumstances of individuals. Whilst we undertake every effort to ensure that the information within this document is complete and up to date, it should not be relied upon as the basis for investment, commercial, professional or legal decisions.
The views expressed in any contributions and/or articles made by third parties and/or individuals are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of FIDIC.
FIDIC accepts no liability in respect to any direct, implied, statutory and/or consequential loss arising from the use of this document or its contents. No part of this report may be copied either in whole or in part without the express permission of the authors in writing.
